We’re coming into that blissful time of the year – flowers are blooming, the sun is shining and summer is just around the corner. But April is significant for another reason too, one that is pertinent to everyone. In 2014, President Obama officially named April National Cancer Control Month.
Each year, more than 500,000 Americans will die of cancer, and more than 1.5 million will be diagnosed with the life-altering disease. Of course, complete prevention of cancer is impossible, but since there are many lifestyle factors that can cause or affect the disease, you can help decrease your risk by making some lifestyle changes, like:
Ditch the tobacco
You already know that smoking is bad for you, but your life really does depend on it. Smoking has been linked to a number of cancer types, including lung, cervical and kidney. Stop using it now – for your health and your life.
Maintain a healthy weight
Not only will you feel more energized, but a healthy weight can also decrease your risk of breast, prostate, lung, colon and kidney cancer.
Get active
Daily exercise not only helps you maintain a healthy weight, but it also gives you added health benefits. For example, exercise by itself (disregarding its effect on weight) may help reduce the risk of breast and colon cancer.
Use sunscreen
Skin cancer is a very common form of cancer, and is very preventable. Make sure that sunscreen is your best friend on sunny days – and stop using those tanning beds and sunlamps.
Stay up to date on your vaccinations
Not only do immunizations help prevent you from disease, but they can also reduce your risk of certain types of cancers. For example, getting vaccinated against HPV will not only decrease your risk of contracting this STD, but it can also help decrease your risk of cervical and other genital cancers which are linked to HPV.
See your doctor regularly
Early detection is key when it comes to effective treatment of various forms of cancer. Getting regular physical exams and screenings is an important part of cancer prevention.
Make this April a healthy one. Start preventing cancer today during National Cancer Control Month!
